25 Ways to Crush the Serpent

By TAN Books

From the very first pages of Scripture, we see the presence of the evil one, working his malice to separate man from God. In imitation of Christ, we all must contend against the devil, the "serpent" who seeks our destruction. This little booklet will give you the tools to enter into and win that battle . . . with God's grace.

Compiled from the writings of Dom Lorenzo Scupoli, St. Robert Bellarmine, and St. Alphonsus Liguori, 25 Ways to Crush the Serpent also includes prayers and excerpts from the Missale Romanum and other traditional sources.

These “25 Ways” will provide fresh insights and encouragement to help you in your own struggle against sin.

Most importantly, the wisdom found in these pages will help you to remember that God is all-powerful, that he has already won the battle for you, and that he will never fail you. If we are to be saints, this is a battle we all must fight. Read this book, meditate upon the wisdom found within, and act! Crush the serpent!

• Language: English
• Publisher: TAN Books
• Release date: Jul 20, 2020
• ISBN: 9781505117608

Book preview

1

FIGHT VALIANTLY AGAINST THE DEVIL

I saw Satan fall like lightning.

—Luke 10:18

However weak you may be; however formidable your enemies may seem either by their numbers or strength, still be not daunted. The assistance that you have from heaven is more powerful than all that hell can send to destroy the grace of God in your soul. God, who created and redeemed you, is no less than Almighty, and more desirous of your salvation than the devil can be of your destruction.

So, fight valiantly, and do not fail to mortify yourself. For it is by making continual war on your disorderly affections and vicious habits that you will gain the victory, acquire the kingdom of heaven, and unite your soul to God for all eternity.

V. We adore Thee O Christ and we bless Thee;

R. Because by Thy Holy Cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

O Lord, heed our supplications and dispose the path of your servants in the prosperity of your salvation; so that among all the many trials of the road and of this life, they may always be preserved by your help.

2

TRUST IN YOUR GUARDIAN ANGEL

The angel of God has been my keeper going from here, abiding there, and returning hither.

—Judith 13:20

The devil is always prepared to insight any thought which may lead to our ruin. At the same time, God has appointed to every man on earth his own Guardian Angel. From the first moment of its creation until the settlement of its final destiny, the angel of God is by its side. In joy and sorrow, through virtue and through sin, the faithful monitor is ever there, beseeching, prompting or applauding. From the lost soul he parts reluctant at the gates of hell, or stands triumphant at the heavenly portals to welcome in his charge. It helps us to realize the value of a human soul to think how God has hedged him roundabout with safeguards and protectors. In their hands the angels bear the just man up, lest perhaps he dash his foot